Best Campgrounds near St. James, MO
Are you in need of a campground near St. James, MO? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of St. James. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.
Best Camping Sites Near St. James, Missouri (122)
1. Maramec Spring Park
14 ReviewsSt. James, MO5 milesWebsite+1 (573) 265-7801$16 - $36 / night
"Maramec Spring Park is a great place for camping and fishing in Missouri. The Park contains the fifth largest spring in the state."
"Nestled in Mid Missouri this place is a jam! Popular with locals there are trails, historic iron works and a fish hatchery…very cool place. Close to highway, good overnight spot!"
2. Onondaga Cave State Park Campground
39 ReviewsLeasburg, MO21 milesWebsite+1 (573) 245-6576$12 - $52 / night
"Other than the water, Onondaga Cave SP has been one of my favorite places to camp in Missouri for more than 20 years."
"We stayed one night on our way through Missouri. It’s only about ten minutes south of I-44. The campground was only about half full, so it was nice and quiet."
3. Pheasant Acres RV Park
7 ReviewsSt. James, MO4 milesWebsite+1 (314) 303-5504$25 - $43 / night
"If you have the time and are going through or near St. James Missouri its off of I-44, Mile Marker 195 towards St. James. "
"It is right off of 8 highway. About 5 miles from I-44 (easy access east or west bound). The sites were kind of tight. But there was shade and picnic tables at the site. The owner helps backing in."
4. Ozark Farms Family Campground
6 ReviewsRolla, MO8 milesWebsite+1 (800) 826-1995$40 / night
"Grounds sit next to a state numbered highway, so access is easy. Don't expect a remote setting. The highway traffic can be distracting if you're used to camping in the woods."
"There are some extended stay residents, and campground is located adjacent to trailer park, but overall experience was safe, clean, and easy. We look forward to returning this year!"
5. Garrison Canoe Rental and Campground
12 ReviewsSteelville, MO16 milesWebsite+1 (573) 775-2410"River access within walking distance. Canoe and raft rental available."
"We stayed in our pop-up camper that was close to the road at the front of the campground. Across the road was the river so we were close to the river which was very nice."
6. Indian Springs Resort and Campground
4 ReviewsSteelville, MO10 milesWebsite+1 (573) 775-2266"Close to the river. Area isn't very big which is nice."
"The sites on this end are a bit of a walk to the bathrooms/showers and camp store, but also extremely spacious and private. "
7. Ozark Outdoors-Riverfront Resort
21 ReviewsLeasburg, MO22 milesWebsite+1 (573) 245-6837"Positives: quiet time starting at 11:00 pm, we didn’t hear cursing, loud music, or anything else that disturbs little ones once they go to sleep, close to the river, clean restroom and shower house, shaded"
"They have a family section if you prefer to be away from the louder bunch."
8. Haven Hollow RV Park
5 ReviewsRolla, MO14 milesWebsite+1 (573) 525-3050$30 / night
"Supplies close by in Rolla.
WiFi wasn't very good and cell was spotty even with the booster.
No showers or toilets on site so you need to be self-contained."
"When you make your reservation they will confirm the length of your rig and put you in the appropriate site as there’s a small berm behind the sites that allow you to back further in on some sites than"
9. Meramec State Park Campground
54 ReviewsSullivan, MO31 milesWebsite+1 (573) 468-6072$12 - $48 / night
"Miles upon miles of trails. Spacious campground, caves to explore, old time blast furnace to explore, fresh Missouri spring with exceptional fishing. Then theres a general store with a restaurant"
"Growing up near here, this was the state park that my family always went to. Forty some years later, it is still my favorite park in Missouri. I enjoy camping here with my family and friends."
10. Doolittle Acres RV Park and Campground
5 ReviewsNewburg, MO16 milesWebsite+1 (573) 762-3000$25 - $55 / night
"Good area only a mile off the highway so it made a great night stopping point. Had great access for our starlink. They have a little dog park, kids park, and it was all clean and well maintained."
"It’s close to US 44 so a bit of road noise. The owner was very friendly and gave us a map with perfect directions."
Recent Camping Photos near St. James, MO
187 Photos of 122 St. James Campgrounds
The Dyrt
Tentrr Signature Site - Maramec Spring Park, McDole's Meadow
The Dyrt
Tentrr Signature Site - Maramec Spring Park Asher Hollow
Robert M.
Indian Springs Resort and Campground
MickandKarla W.
Haven Hollow RV Park
Allie A.
Garrison Canoe Rental and Campground
Kelsie L.
Onondaga Cave State Park Campground
Gwenn W.
Ozark Outdoors-Riverfront Resort
Nathan P.
Huzzah Valley Resort
Allie A.
Bass' River Resort
Josiah P.
Boiling Springs Campground
Leslie G.
Blue Spring Ranch
Trudi D.
Old Bluegrass Campground
Recent Reviews near St. James, MO
538 Reviews of 122 St. James Campgrounds
- mmitzi B.
ScoutFredericksburg Ferry Access
Favorite spot
Quiet and always kept clean,
- KKelley
GuideRuby's Landing River Resort
Peaceful and scenic stay
Ruby's Landing River Resort is the place if you are wanting a place that has wildlife, beautiful river views and away from the lights of town. We enjoyed hanging out with our friends on the porch of Cabin #3, eating a great steak and catching up. The town of Waynesville is not far away and they had a couple of grocery stores, some restaurants and Uranus!! I definitely want to come back for their annual Haunted River Float.
- LLori G.Scout
Pheasant Acres RV Park
Quaint & quiet!
Very welcoming host. She made sure I had a site to fit my needs. WiFi was good. Cute shower / bathroom house. Grounds display unique decorations. I'll come back!
- C
Cody S.ScoutTimberline Lake Dispersed - Mark Twain National Forest
2 camp secluded lake
Peaceful night, very off the beaten path, need AWD to get there on gravel roads. There is a boat launch that’s steep and rough.
Amber C.ScoutRV Self-Park
Great RV Space
We rolled into RV Self-Park late with our pup and loved how smooth the process was. Booking online was quick, the site was level, and everything was super easy—even after dark. It’s well-lit, secure, and the hookups worked right on time. There’s a fenced dog area too, which was a nice surprise. You will hear some highway noise, but honestly, after years in trucking, it just felt like home. No restrooms or extras, but for a quick, no-hassle stop right off I-44, this place nailed it.
Miles W.
TravelerBerryman Trail & Campgrounds - Mark Twain National Forest
Awesome
Great lowkey campground with basic bathroom and water pump. The space was perfect for me and a couple buddies going on a road trip. We almost had the place to ourselves. The trail was really cool and we saw a wild turkey nest with eggs!
Nicholas H.ScoutCourtois Creek Dispersed
Unpassable road
The road to get there isn't a road so much as a ATV trail. All wheel drive and it was too hard on my Subaru. Mostly washed out
Kelsey S.GuideDoolittle Acres RV Park and Campground
Nice area
Good area only a mile off the highway so it made a great night stopping point. Had great access for our starlink. They have a little dog park, kids park, and it was all clean and well maintained. Easy access and some nice pull through spots. Water, sewer, and electric hook ups. Fire pit and picnic table at site. Since it’s close the highway it was a little loud with traffic. 57$ a night for premium spots, 42$ a night for non premium
Chelsea G.TravelerCourtois Creek Dispersed
Heavy on the Hills Have Eyes vibes
First of all this is way down Berryman Rd. Go look up Michael Berryman (RIP) and his movies, then come back to me.
Got that picture? Ok great.
First thing you see when you turn off the highway is a tiny Baptist (first red flag) church and graveyard to set the tone.
If that doesn't put you off, make sure your car can handle terrain and you can handle your car. This is barely a road. It's a trail of moguls for your tires. Fallen trees and branches that narrow the lane and threaten to scrape the sides of your vehicle. One tree overhead barely cleared my car. Puddles that could be who know how deep or what's in them (I may be the red flag here). You can not turn around anywhere on this road; you have to go to the end where there's a loop or worst case scenario reverse out while ideally not in a state of panic.
I however as a cultist who worships at the altar of my Subaru's cargo hatch forged ahead because gotta get that creekside spot.
Anyway I got to the site without popping any tires and half set up before going for a walk. There's not a lot of walkable ground out there, really just the flat ground around the campsites and the road. Road was barely even an option. Water-filled pits made the muddy road difficult to traverse and eventually prevented me from going any further. The brush and reedy grass were too thick to walk through safely to get around, and in places the roadside embankments were too steep and loose to climb up and around puddles.
I did see a big ol mudbug, which was cool, but it was terribly quiet out there during my short walk. I was glad to get back to my car, where up the low cliff on the opposite side of the creek was a nicer-looking house with the sounds of people hanging out on the deck.
As night fell and the animal sounds picked up, I decided to sleep in my car instead of the tent. If you're ever out and you hear the animals and insects go silent, and then the next thing you hear is dogs barking, you should also probably sleep in your car.
After a hot and filling foil wrap dinner, I enjoyed some of the good green, because who doesn't like a sleep aid that also activates the amygdala, especially in these particular conditions. I'm soaking up the stars and the moon and the sound of running water, when suddenly I heard a heavy-bodied splash in the creek right by me.
And when I tell you I bolted to the car so fast leaving behind a tangled trail of chair, blanket, charger cable, etc
Because the shore on my side of the creek is flat. Waltz right on up from the creek. Nope not here not me.
Anyway nothing ended up happening, I slept fine, woke up to a bright sun and beautiful view. I did still get out of there pretty fast.
⭐5/7 might go spook myself again
Guide to St. James
Camping near St. James, Missouri, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.
What to do:
- Hiking and Exploring Nature: Many campgrounds, like Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park, have great trails. One visitor mentioned, "The Scour Trail was also close and really neat to see." You can enjoy scenic views and the beauty of the Ozarks.
- Fishing and Swimming: At Montauk State Park Campground, the river is perfect for fishing. A camper noted, "The river is full of fish and people fishing for them." It’s a great spot for a relaxing day by the water.
- Caving Adventures: If you're up for something unique, check out Onondaga Cave State Park Campground. One reviewer said, "Onondaga Cave is amazing with the new lighting." It’s a fun way to explore the underground wonders of Missouri.
What campers like:
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and campsites. A visitor at Meramec State Park Campground said, "This was such a clean campground. From the restrooms to the campsite and the river, everything was amazing."
- Friendly Staff: Many campers mention the helpfulness of the staff. At Lazy Day Campground, one guest shared, "The owners are very friendly. Very well-kept campground."
- Secluded Spots: Campers enjoy the privacy offered at places like Echo Bluff State Park. A reviewer noted, "Sites were big, private and spread out through the woods."
What you should know:
- Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor cell reception. A camper at Alley Spring Campground warned, "There is NO cell signal, so I highly recommend you take a weather radio."
- Reservations Recommended: Popular spots fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A visitor at Montauk State Park Campground advised, "Reservations recommended, especially on weekends."
- Weather Preparedness: Be ready for changing weather conditions. One camper at Onondaga Cave State Park Campground mentioned, "Avoid campsite 65 when it rains," highlighting the importance of checking the forecast.
Tips for camping with families:
- Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. At Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park, a parent said, "The shut-ins were right down the road or you could walk or bike the paved path all the way there."
- Safety First: Keep an eye on your kids, especially near water. A camper at Meramec State Park Campground noted, "Our site had skunks and raccoons each night."
- Pack Entertainment: Since some areas have limited connectivity, bring games or books. A visitor at Montauk State Park Campground suggested, "If you want to have any entertainment, BRING DVDs."
Tips from RVers:
- Level Sites: Look for campgrounds with level sites for easier setup. A reviewer at St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA mentioned, "The site was not level front to back and we had to build a sizable pyramid with our blocks."
- Full Hookups: Choose campgrounds that offer full hookups for convenience. A camper at Lake of the Ozarks State Park Campground appreciated, "They park is awesome, a few hikes inside and only a few miles from Ha Ha Tonka."
- Check Amenities: Before booking, check what amenities are available. A visitor at Lazy Day Campground said, "Clean facility and family-friendly."
Camping near St. James, Missouri, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. With beautiful parks and friendly communities, it’s a great place to enjoy the outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near St. James, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, St. James, MO offers a wide range of camping options, with 122 campgrounds and RV parks near St. James, MO and 10 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near St. James, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near St. James, MO is Maramec Spring Park with a 4.5-star rating from 14 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near St. James, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 free dispersed camping spots near St. James, MO.
What parks are near St. James, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 parks near St. James, MO that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.
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